Often, the fondest childhood memories stem from family traditions that are lovingly repeated throughout the years. Family traditions have family at the center of a celebration spending time together and creating last memories. I always refer to traditions as the “we all” of family. “We always” do this on….

If you haven’t already established some creative “We all” Valentine’s Day traditions, why not start one this year? You know that the little things are often the big things and those big things don’t have to be expensive. Here are some inexpensive ways you can start a special Valentine’s Day tradition with the family. Click on the highlighted link to bring you to each creative, yet inexpensive idea to make this year magical.

1. This tradition can begin today. Engage your family’s creativity and sense of excitement by beginning the My Secret Valentine tradition leading up to the 14th.

4. For years, our children enjoyed decorating their Valentine’s Day jar and attempting to go “above and beyond” what’s been asked with our Hearts of Loving Kindness Family Tradition idea. Focusing on character building, as well as the fun stuff makes family time that much more intentional. This idea can also be used at any time of the year.

or making this easy Sour Cream Banana Cake. If you have run out of time and realize you want to do something special, but only have about five minutes to whip it up, try this recipe. It’s a keeper. It’s semi homemade, but allows you to use those free cake mixes that you may have stockpiled recently.

And finally, don’t stress about some fancy dessert. All you need is a trifle bowl (or any glass bowl) and layer away yummy goodness. I love my Strawberry Snickers Trifle, but the variations are endless.